The Rwenzori Mountains National Park – the fabled Mountains of the Moon – lies in western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo border. The equatorial snow peaks include the third highest point in Africa, while the lower slopes are blanketed in moorland, bamboo, and rich, moist montane forest.
Huge tree-heathers and colorful mosses are draped across the mountainside with giant lobelias and “everlasting flowers”, creating an enchanting, fairytale scene. Rwenzori Mountains National Park protects the highest parts of the 120km-long and 65km-wide Rwenzori mountain range. The national park hosts 70 mammals and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world’s rarest vegetation.
The Rwenzoris are a world-class hiking and mountaineering destination. A nine- to twelve-day trek will get skilled climbers to the summit of Margherita – the highest peak – though shorter, non-technical treks are possible to scale the surrounding peaks.
For those who prefer something a little less strenuous, neighboring Bakonzo villages offer nature walks, homestead visits home cultural performances and accommodation, including home-cooked local cuisine.
Other landmarks on the path west
- Bigodi Wetlands & Community Programs
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Maramagambo Forest
- Katonga
- Kisiizi Falls (listed below)
- Semuliki National Park
- Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The Kisiizi Falls are located in Kisiizi Parish in Nyarushanje Sub County in Rukungiri District of Western Uganda. The falls drop approximately 30 meters off a cliff at Kisiizi on the Rushoma River that snakes its way to Lake Edward.
Kisiizi has both historical and geographical significance.
Geographically, the falls are located in a forested area and gorge famous for birdlife including endemic species like the Ross Turaco, Double Toothed barbet, and the cinnamon Bee-eater. As a tourist area, it is famed for the scenic environment and trekking activities.
The monument at Kisiizi Falls overlooking the community present strong tourist potential because of the historical, geographical, and social significance, the falls are located along the tourist route linking the Virunga ranges famed for the Mountain Gorilla attraction, and the Ishasha sector of the Queen Elizabeth National Park. The location is attractive to nature lovers because of its rich concentration of bird species, site viewing, and nature trekking. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing along River Rushoma and a trek to the Top of the Falls.
